UCU Digital Institutional Repository(UCUDIR)
Welcome to the Uganda Christian University Digital Institutional Repositoy (UCUDIR). This is the University's official Institutional Repository. It aims to collect, preserve and showcase the intellectual output of staff and students of UCU. This growing collection of research includes peer-reviewed articles, book chapters, working papers, theses, and more.
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Recent Submissions
Digital Communication and Mentorship: The Use of WhatsApp in Bishop Stuart University
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-05-30) Tumwebaze Pamela
Purpose: The study sought to investigate the effectiveness of using WhatsApp communication to achieve a successful mentorship experience for both the mentor and the mentee in Bishop Stuart University (BSU). The objectives of the study were (1) To assess ways through which WhatsApp communication is used in mentorship programmes in BSU; (2) to examine the challenges associated with using WhatsApp communication in mentorship at BSU, and (3) to
suggest possible solutions to the identified challenges. Methods: To achieve the purpose of the study, a case study research design was adopted for the study. The study population consisted of 62 participants as the sample size for the study. Data collection methods used were interview guides for Focus Group Discussions and in-depth interviews, Results: The study revealed that WhatsApp has introduced more potentialities for mentorship programmes in BSU. However, the opportunities come with several challenges such as limited access to digital tools, limited digital literacy among the mentors and mentees, poor internet connection, mentees‘ and mentors‘ fatigue, among others. To overcome the existing challenges, the study recommends a number measures including vigilant planning, adaptability, and clear communication. Conclusion: It was concluded that leveraging technology for successful mentorship programmes is a straight path into unequalled opportunities of personal and professional growth. Recommendations: The Study recommended that HEIs should develop policy guides for digital mentorship, foster sustainable online learning, incorporate digital literacy trainings in the curriculum, and ensure the protection of students' data and privacy. Students on the other hand should create a distraction-free study space, develop critical thinking skills to evaluate the credibility and accuracy of information encountered, and take regular breaks from screens among others.
Perspectives on Corruption, and Addressing Its Effect on Service Delivery: The Case of Banda Parish in Nakawa West Constituency
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-05-17) Ssenyonyi Besekezi Joel
This study examined perspectives on corruption in Nakawa West Constituency, using Banda parish as the area of study. The objectives were: to identify the main causes of corruption in Banda-Nakawa West Constituency; to examine how corruption manifests in the delivery of services in Banda-Nakawa West Constituency; and to assess the consequences of corruption on service delivery in Banda-Nakawa West Constituency. A phenomenological research design with a qualitative approach was used. 30 participants were recruited purposively, and data collected until the point of saturation. The study revealed that corruption in Banda-Nakawa West Constituency is driven by personal greed, economic hardships, weak governance, and a decline in societal values. It is normalized in various sectors, making it an accepted part of life. This entrenched corruption is further perpetuated by institutional failures, lack of transparency, and weak leadership. The findings also revealed that corruption in Banda-Nakawa West is driven by a combination of weak institutional structures, economic pressures, cultural acceptance, and a lack of effective governance, transparency, and accountability. The findings further revealed that corruption was undermining the quality and accessibility of services, but also created an environment of inequality where access to services depends more on one's ability to pay than on fairness or need. Addressing this will require comprehensive reforms in the political, economic, and social systems of the constituency. The study proposed strategies to combat corruption including stern action against those involved in corruption, strengthening civil society, and promoting ethical behavior in public service.
Factors Affecting Antiretroviral Therapy Adherence Among Adolescents Receiving Services From Four Selected Health Facilities in Iganga District
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-05-25) Maraka Veronica Joy
Introduction: The study examined the factors affecting antiretroviral therapy adherence among adolescents living with HIV in four selected health facilities in Iganga district, Uganda. Methods: A cross-sectional survey design was employed, with quantitative data collection from 222 adolescents aged 10-19 years who had been on ART for at least one year. Results: Utilizing the Morisky-Green-Levine Adherence Scale, the research assessed various adherence behaviors, revealing that 51.4% of respondents admit to occasionally forgetting their medication, while 48.6% report consistent adherence. The average adherence rate stood at 74.3%, suggesting a substantial proportion of adolescents’ exhibit adherence. Significant correlations emerged between ART adherence and health system-related factors, including distance to the HIV reference unit, health information dissemination, waiting times at the clinic, satisfaction with healthcare services, regular follow-up appointments, and support from healthcare providers. Notably, socio-economic factors exhibited a statistically significant positive correlation with adherence (Pearson Correlation = 0.271, p < 0.01), emphasizing their influential role. However, regression analysis reveals health system-related factors lack statistical significance as independent predictors of adherence (B = -0.173, p = 0.224). Conversely, socio-economic factors emerge as significant predictors of adherence (β = 0.306, p < 0.001). Furthermore, drug-related factors, such as the amount and frequency of drug intake, alongside awareness of therapy side-effects, display notable correlations with ART adherence. Conclusions: The study concluded that the current antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence rate among adolescents in Iganga district is 74.3%, with 25.7% of adolescents not adhering to the therapy. Significant health system-related factors affecting adherence included distance to the HIV reference unit, health information dissemination, waiting times, satisfaction with healthcare services, regular follow up appointments, and supportive healthcare providers. Socio-economic and lifestyle factors, such as income, education, employment status, family support, and emotional well-being, also played a crucial role in adherence. Drug-related factors, including the amount and frequency of drugs, therapy side effects, and discomfort after taking medication, influenced adherence.
Assessing the Knowledge Towards Hepatitis B Virus Among Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Clinic at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital, Malawi
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-04-24) Theu Andrew Samuel
Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) remains a major public health concern in Malawi, particularly among pregnant women due to its potential for vertical (mother-to-child) transmission. This study assessed knowledge related to HBV among 369 pregnant women attending antenatal care at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital in Blantyre. Knowledge scores were used to categorize respondents into two groups: those with adequate knowledge (answered more than 5 questions correctly) and those with poor knowledge (answered 5 or fewer correctly). While 60.2% of the participants had heard of HBV, only 25.5% correctly identified it as a virus. This indicates that general awareness did not always correspond with scientific understanding. Many participants lacked clarity on HBV’s classification and transmission pathways—49.3% were unsure whether it is caused by a virus, and 54.7% were unaware of its viral nature. Knowledge of transmission routes was equally inconsistent. Only 17.9% believed it could be transmitted through casual contact, while 42.5% acknowledged the possibility of infection through an infected husband. Meanwhile, just 45.3% were aware of mother-to-child transmission during childbirth. Although more than half (53.4%) recognized the preventive role of the HBV vaccine, misconceptions around curability and risk persisted. About 50.7% believed HBV is curable, and only 33.3% acknowledged unsafe sex as a transmission risk. Furthermore, just 30.9% of respondents were aware that asymptomatic individuals can still transmit the virus. These knowledge gaps reflect limited understanding of key aspects that influence prevention and early detection. Statistical analysis revealed significant associations between knowledge levels and socio-demographic factors such as residence, education level, and income (p < 0.001). Women residing in urban areas or those with higher education and income levels were more likely to demonstrate accurate knowledge about HBV. These findings underscore the disparities in health literacy that may hinder public health efforts, particularly among rural and underserved populations.
In conclusion, the study highlights a critical need for targeted educational interventions within antenatal care settings to improve HBV-related knowledge. By strengthening communication strategies and leveraging existing ANC touchpoints, healthcare providers can empower pregnant women with essential information, ultimately contributing to the reduction of HBV transmission and improved maternal and neonatal health outcomes.
Knowledge, Practice, and Barriers of Nurses about Early TB detection in Selected Health Center IVs in a District in Southwestern Uganda
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-04-17) Habimana Simon
Background/Purpose: Tuberculosis (TB) remains a significant public health issue worldwide, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Although early detection and prompt management are key to controlling TB, nurses face numerous barriers in early detection, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions. In Southwestern Uganda, no studies have been conducted to describe the knowledge, practices, and barriers of nurses regarding early TB detection. This study aimed to describe the knowledge, barriers, and practices of nurses in early TB detection at Health Centre IVs in Southwestern Uganda. Theoretical/Conceptual Framework: This study applied Lewin’s Theory of Organizational Change, focusing on the "unfreezing" stage to assess the knowledge, practice and barriers of nurses regarding early TB detection in Health Centre IVs in Southwestern Uganda. Methodology: A cross-sectional quantitative research design was utilized. Using consecutive sampling, 60 nurses were recruited from three Health Centre IVs in a district in Southwestern Uganda. A questionnaire was used to collect data on nurses' knowledge, practices, and barriers regarding early TB detection. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS (version 23). Results: Only 20% of nurses had excellent knowledge of early TB detection, while 38% had poor knowledge. Most participants had poor practices (67%). About 75% of nurses faced high levels of perceived barriers to early TB detection like: lack of awareness, training, TB guidelines, lack of diagnostic equipment and poor supply of infection prevention materials, perceived stigmatization among the nurses at risk of TB, belief that TB is a high risk disease, and human resource constraints which may result in delays in getting TB laboratory results. Conclusion: There were significant gaps in the knowledge and practices of nurses regarding early TB detection, along with high levels of perceived barriers like: inadequate training, stigma, and delays in diagnostic processes, which significantly impact the effectiveness of early TB detection. Recommendations: The study recommends continuous professional development and comprehensive training programs for nurses to improve their knowledge, collaboration, and practices in early TB detection. Clear, standardized guidelines for early TB detection are needed, along with efforts to reduce stigma surrounding the disease, which is a significant barrier to early detection. Key Terms: Knowledge, Practices, Barriers, Tuberculosis, Early TB detection, Nurses, Southwestern Uganda.